If you’re in the mood for something a little out of the ordinary, Saugatuck Brewing’s Neapolitan Milk Stout is a fun, dessert inspired beer that aims to bring the classic ice cream flavor straight to your glass. It’s definitely a conversation starter, and, for the most part, it lives up to its sweet promise.
First Impressions
When you pour this beer, you’re immediately struck by its rich, dark appearance. It’s nearly pitch black with a creamy, tan head that sticks around just long enough to give you a good look before settling down. The aroma is where things really start to get interesting. It’s exactly like a scoop of Neapolitan ice cream: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry all hit your nose at once. I wasn’t sure how they were going to pull off the strawberry, but it’s there, and surprisingly, it works.
Taste
The first sip is like dessert in a glass. The flavors come through in layers, just like the classic three-flavor ice cream. You get a big hit of sweet vanilla and creamy milk sugar upfront, which transitions into a rich, roasty chocolate. The strawberry flavor sneaks in towards the end, and while it’s definitely on the sweeter side, it’s more subtle than I expected. The balance between the flavors is better than I thought it would be—none of them dominate too heavily, and they all get their moment to shine.
That said, the strawberry flavor might be the most polarizing part of the experience. It’s natural tasting, but it could be a bit much for some drinkers. If you’re used to more traditional stouts, that fruity sweetness might take you by surprise. For me, it was a pleasant twist, but I can see how some might find it a little too candy-like.
Mouthfeel and Drinkability
The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy, as you’d expect from a milk stout. It’s full-bodied, but not so heavy that it feels like a chore to drink. At 6% ABV, it’s fairly easy-drinking, but it’s definitely not a beer you’re going to crush. This is a slow sipper, perfect for a chilly evening or as an after-dinner treat. The carbonation is mild, just enough to keep things from feeling flat, and the lactose adds a satisfying creaminess that lingers on the palate.
Critiques
While Saugatuck Neapolitan Milk Stout is undeniably fun and unique, it’s also not a beer I’d want more than one of in a sitting. The sweetness, while well-executed, can build up after a glass, and the novelty of the Neapolitan flavor combo might wear off after a while. It’s definitely a great beer to share with friends or to bring out as a dessert option, but it’s probably not going to be your go-to for an entire evening of drinking.
Additionally, while the flavors are well-balanced for the most part, there are moments where the strawberry can feel a bit artificial or overpowering compared to the more natural vanilla and chocolate notes.
Final Verdict
Saugatuck Brewing’s Neapolitan Milk Stout is a creative, well-crafted dessert beer that brings a nostalgic flavor to life in a fun and mostly successful way. The combination of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry is spot on, especially in the aroma, and it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for something sweet and different. However, the strawberry element might not be for everyone, and the overall sweetness makes it more of an occasional indulgence than an everyday drinker.
Rating
- Appearance: 9/10
- Aroma: 9.5/10
- Taste: 8/10
- Mouthfeel: 8/10
- Overall: 8.5/10
If you’re into dessert stouts and enjoy experimenting with unique flavors, Saugatuck’s Neapolitan Milk Stout is definitely worth a try. Just don’t be surprised if one is enough for the night. It’s rich, indulgent, and a little bit of fun in every sip!
If you’ve tried a Saugatuck Brewing’s Neapolitan Milk Stout, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
I tried this beer. I thought it was well done, but the flavors became a bit overwhelming by the time I finished it. It’s definitely a sipper, and definitely a one-and-done type of beer, but it’s good.